Experience with Proof Research 18" SS barrel

[Winnie the Poo]

I have just won a Proof Research stainless steel barrel at a match. I get to choose any up to a value of $550 and as I am flush for precision barrels I was thinking of an AR barrel. I have no experience with any of their products or 18 inch AR barrels in general. What are opinions on an 18" vs 20" and any pitfalls I might encounter going with an 18" rifle gassed system?

This will be my first AR upper build and it will be used for service rifle competition out to 500 meters.

Thanks
Winnie

[opngrnd]

I have two scoped 18" ARs, and generally wish I'd gone 20" with them. Since I'm not running and gunning with them, the extra 2" would give a little more velocity with no real drawbacks for me personally. That said, I'm pretty happy with them.

[tehpwnag3]

No experience with the brand but, for service rifle, go with the 20".

[ST911]

Proof barrels are very GTG.

No opinion on the length for your application.

[Winnie the Poo]

I have heard they are good to go. Additionally, I would like to thank them for supporting the Canadian National Service Conditions matches with a prize.

[everready73]

I think that 18" rifle length is more reliable than mid length of you go with 18''. My white oak spr barrel runs great in rifle length.

If the extra 2 inches won't hurt you I would go 20''for the reasons above

[fledge]

My 18” proof is excellent. I have put 10rds of M193 in a 3x5 card at 200 yards. The gas port is tuned well for quality ammo. For your purposes, as stated, get the 20”. You’ll notice the weight savings and balance on that longer barrel immediately.

[ST911]

My 18” proof is excellent. I have put 10rds of M193 in a 3x5 card at 200 yards. The gas port is tuned well for quality ammo. For your purposes, as stated, get the 20”. You’ll notice the weight savings and balance on that longer barrel immediately.

What kind of groups did you get with good ammo?

[fledge]

IIRC, .75 MOA is my best 5rd groups with match ammo. And I’m only a .75 shooter. Results will vary with shooting ability.

I have had similar results from SMOS shilen barrels and Centurion douglas barrels.

[Hammer_Man]

Pardon my ignorance, but for service rifle competitions aren't you limited to 20" barrels anyway?